UHV to host performance of 'Marx in Soho'

The philosophy of Karl Marx will be center stage in April in a free theater performance at the University of Houston-Victoria.

The production "Marx in Soho" will be performed at UHV's University Center Multi-Purpose Room.

The premise of "Marx in Soho" is that Marx returns to Earth for one hour to defend the relevance of his ideas and highlight the serious social issues facing the world today.

Through a bureaucratic error, Marx is sent to Soho in New York rather than London.

When he arrives, Marx launches into a passionate, funny and moving defense of his life and political ideas.

Gino Tozzi, a UHV lecturer of political science, said he hopes students will gain a better understanding of political philosophy from this event.

"We want to pique their interest in politics," Tozzi said. "If their interest grows, they will want to know more about politics and economics. If students have a better understanding of those subjects, they will get more involved and be better decision makers."

Written by the late Howard Zinn, the performance also introduces the audience to Marx's wife, Jenny; his children; anarchist Mikhail Bakunin and a host of other characters. Tozzi said attendees should keep in mind this is how Zinn interpreted Marxism.

Marx is portrayed by Bob Weick, a veteran actor who has appeared in movies, TV shows and numerous theater productions.

"Weick is passionate about his craft, and he delivers a great performance," Tozzi said. "He knows everything by heart. He has a real beard and receding hairline that makes him look even more believable as Marx."